Applying to Participate in the National Arts Festival
Every year, the National Arts Festival stages work across theatre, dance, comedy, performance art, poetry, visual art, music and more on a number of platforms.
There are a number of clear paths to participation in the Festival across various elements:
Curated Programme
The Curated Programme includes works across all disciplines. The programme is selected by the Artistic Committee and the Artistic Director. It is a small part of the programme, but it is fully funded. Artists apply through a call for applications.
Application Window
4 August 2025 to midnight 03 October 2025 (SAST)
Fringe Programme
Fringe Registrations pend an assessment to match the capacity of the Festival and ensure there is an even representation of genre, demographics and place of origin. All Fringe registrations will be informed of their registration outcome.
Application Window
8 September to midnight 21 November 2025 (SAST)
Programme Sponsorship
Programme Sponsors can be in contact with the Artistic Director by sharing a proposal outlining their programme and/or partnership with Festival.
Village Green and Church Square Traders
Village Green and Church Square registrations pend an assessment to match the capacity of the Festival and type of products to ensure there is a balanced offering of goods, demographics and place of origin in the available trading areas.
Registration will open later in 2025
